Judge Strikes Down Md. Ban on Gay Marriages

Washington Post: A Baltimore judge ruled yesterday that Maryland’s law banning same-sex marriage is discriminatory and “cannot withstand constitutional challenge,” throwing open the possibility of a bruising legislative battle over a constitutional amendment.

Unlike decisions in Massachusetts and New York state, the Maryland ruling will not immediately bring lines of same-sex couples to city hall for civil ceremonies. Circuit Court Judge M. Brooke Murdock immediately stayed her decision, and the attorney general’s office has voiced plans for an appeal. story

Michael Robinson Chavez / The Washington Post

Lead plaintiffs in the lawsuit, Gita Deane, left, and Lisa Polyak of Baltimore are savoring their victory but acknowledge that challenges lie ahead.